When a regional carrier earns the official nod from an Alaska Native Village Corporation, it signals more than just a business deal—it reflects a shared investment in the daily lives of the communities they serve. That’s the backdrop for a new arrangement between Hooper Bay’s Sea Lion Corporation and Bethel-based Yute Commuter Service, which took effect this month.
Sea Lion shareholders will receive 20% off standard fares between Bethel and their
home village
Starting October 8th, 2026, Sea Lion Corporation shareholders can fly between Bethel and their home village for 20% off Yute Commuter Service’s standard fares. The discount is part of a new partnership in which Sea Lion Corporation, the Alaska Native Village Corporation for Hooper Bay, has named Yute its air carrier of choice.
Sea Lion is also putting its name behind Yute. Travelers will see that support in Yute’s terminals, in print, on its website and in its outreach across the region.
“Being chosen by Sea Lion Corporation brings together two organizations that share a commitment to the communities and people of our region,” said Wade Renfro, owner of Yute Commuter Service. “We’re proud and honored to be part of it.”
The discount applies to one-way and round-trip standard fares between Bethel and the home villages of Sea Lion Corporation’s shareholders and is not stackable with other discounts. Shareholders can book by calling (888) 359-9883.
“For a lot of Hooper Bay families, the trip to Bethel is how they get to medical appointments, purchase needed supplies and see relatives. Making that trip more affordable for Sea Lion shareholders is one way we can give back to the communities and show our appreciation” Renfro said.
This partnership builds on relationships both organizations have with communities across the region.
To book a flight or learn more about routes and services, call (888) 359-9883 or visit yutebethel.com.
About Yute Commuter Service
Based in Bethel, Alaska, Yute Commuter Service provides scheduled passenger and cargo air service, as well as charter service, to 47 communities across Western Alaska. Its fleet of Cessna 208B Grand Caravan aircraft is equipped with TKS ice protection. Learn more at yutebethel.com.
About Sea Lion Corporation
Sea Lion Corporation is an Alaska Native Village Corporation from Hooper Bay, a Yup’ik community in Southwest Alaska about 140 miles northwest of Bethel. Established in 1973 under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act of 1971, the corporation represents more than 640 shareholders and is governed by a seven-member board. Its businesses include UCI, LLC; Sea Lion Management Group, LLC; and investment real estate. Learn more at sealioncorp.com.
Why it matters: For shareholders in remote Western Alaska villages, air travel isn’t a luxury—it’s a lifeline to healthcare, goods, and family. By formalizing this discount, Sea Lion Corporation is using its corporate position to directly lower a barrier that affects the well-being of its more than 640 shareholders, setting a precedent for how tribal corporations can leverage local business partnerships for tangible community benefit.
Wayne Renfro
Yute Commuter Service
+1 888-359-9883
fly@yutebethel.com
